MUSICAL DIRECTOR
BEN HALSTEAD
Ben has achieved much success in the early years of conducting. He has been invited to conduct numerous Championship Section Brass Bands within the South of England including Brunel Brass, Filton Concert Brass, and The Woodfalls Band. He also conducted the winning performance at the Midlands Entertainment Championships in 2019. Ben was appointed as the Musical Director of Fordingbridge based “Hyde Band” as of August 2024.
WHERE DID IT START?
Ben Halstead grew up in Saddleworth, Greater Manchester and started to learn the cornet at the age of 9 through Oldham Borough Music Service. He studied at the Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama (RWCMD), under Dr Robert Childs, Chris Turner and Tom Hutchinson, and gained a BMus (Hons) in 2015.
AS A MUSICIAN
Ben has been part of the brass band scene for many years and has previously been a member of the Flowers Band and Desford Colliery Band to name a few.
After completing his degree, Ben toured Australia with the Grimethorpe Colliery Band and performed at the Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo in Canada.
His instrumental exploits have seen him perform in some of the world’s greatest concert halls, including; Symphony Hall, The Sage, Sadler’s Wells Theatre, St David’s Hall, The Wales Millennium and The Royal Albert Hall.
THE ARMY
Upon completion of his studies at RWCMD, Ben decided to join the British Army as a musician. He then served as a member of both The Band of the Prince of Wales’s Division and British Army Band Tidworth before gaining a position on the highly coveted British Army Bandmaster Course where he graduated in July 2023.
Ben has received conducting tuition from some of the most sought-after professors in the United Kingdom; including Mark Herron, Professor John Traill, Russell Gray and Professor Robin Browning. He has travelled extensively due to his occupation, having visited Georgia, Uganda, Pakistan, and Afghanistan amongst others.
During his relatively short time as a Bandmaster, Ben has already been assigned to the Band and Bugles of the Rifles, based in Winchester where he led the unit on a variety of engagements in the UK. He now is employed within the Royal Military School of Music to assure all elements of the Army’s musical training.
The Vital Role of the Musical Director at Hyde Band
At Hyde Band, the Musical Director plays an essential role in shaping our musical identity. This individual is not just a conductor; they are the creative force behind our performances and rehearsals, guiding the band through both the technical and emotional aspects of music-making. Their artistic vision is crucial in determining the repertoire, style, and interpretation of pieces, ensuring that every performance resonates with our audience.
Guidance Through Rehearsals
The Musical Director meticulously crafts each rehearsal, using their expertise to refine the band's sound. They facilitate constructive feedback, fostering an atmosphere of collaboration and improvement. Their ability to communicate effectively inspires confidence in our musicians
Artistic Vision in Action
The Musical Directors vision does not merely exist in theory; it manifests during performances.
By interpreting the music with passion and precision, they bring our collective efforts to life, showcasing the unique character of Hyde Band.
Each concert is an opportunity for the director to demonstrate how individual talents contribute to a harmonious whole.
Fostering Talent and Creativity
A core responsibility of the Musical Director is to nurture the talents of each band member. This supportive environment encourages creativity, allowing members to experiment and explore their musical interests while contributing to the ensemble.
Building a Collaborative Community
The Musical Director is pivotal in cultivating a strong sense of community within Hyde Band. By emphasising collaboration and teamwork, they ensure that every voice is heard and valued.
This inclusive approach not only enhances our performances but also creates lasting relationships among band members, fostering a vibrant and dynamic musical family.
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